Connector device for a controllable instrument

ABSTRACT

A connector assembly for controllable articles is described herein. The connector assembly engages force transmission elements used to transmit force from one or more force generators with the force transmission elements used to manipulate a controllable article. Additionally, the connector assembly provides organization thereby simplifying the process of connecting a plurality of elements, usually with a quick, single movement.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/229,577 filed Aug. 27, 2002, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,858,005, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/790,204 filed Feb. 20, 2001, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,468,203, which claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/194,140 filed Apr. 3, 2000, all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to connector assemblies for use with articulating instruments. More particularly, it relates to connectors and systems for transmitting force to an articulating instrument to move that instrument.

BACKGROUND OF TEE INVENTION

One challenge confronting the use of articulating instruments is the efficient and reliable coupling of the force generated for moving the articulating components of the instrument to the articulating components themselves. It nay be desirable to have a single force generator that may be used with a number of individual articulating instruments. In this case, the ability to switch, with ease, between the different individual articulating instruments is desirable. For example, while one articulating instrument is being cleaned or maintained, the force generator could be coupled to another articulating instrument thereby increasing the utilization factor of the force generator.

As the degree of movement and control for an articulating instrument increases, the number, variety and size of articulating components needed to operate the instrument increases. As the variety and size of articulating components increases, so too increases the number of force transmission elements to move those articulating components. As such, there also exists a need for a connector that provides an organized arrangement of the force transmission elements in an effort to reduce complexity at the force transmission/component articulation interface.

Articulating instruments are used in a wide variety of commercial settings including, for example, industrial robotic applications and medical applications. One example of an articulating medical instrument is an endoscope. An endoscope is a medical instrument for visualizing the interior of a patient's body. Endoscopes are used for a variety of different diagnostic and interventional procedures, including colonoscopy, bronchoscopy; thoracoscopy, laparoscopy and video endoscopy. The desire to access remote portions of the body more efficiently or access one area of the body while avoiding other areas along the way increases the complexity of articulating endoscopes and articulating surgical instruments generally.

Insertion of an articulating colonoscope is further complicated by the fact that the colon represents a tortuous and convoluted path. Considerable manipulation of the colonoscope by manipulation of articulating components is often necessary to advance the colonoscope through the colon. However, as the colonoscope is inserted farther into the colon, it becomes more difficult to advance the colonoscope along the selected path. At each turn of the colon, the colonoscope rubs against the mucosal surface of the colon and friction and slack in the articulating components of the colonoscope changes. As such, there also exists a need to provide compensation for changes in the friction and slack of the articulating components as the colonoscope is advanced or withdrawn from the colon.

As such, a need exists for connector assemblies that will organize and simplify the process of connecting the plurality of elements needed to move and control an articulating instrument with the force generator or actuators that generate the forces to move the articulating instrument.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one aspect of the present invention, there is a system for moving a controllable article. The system includes a force generator; a first force transmission element having a first end connected to the force generator and a second end having a first connecting element; a second force transmission element having a first end connected to the controllable article and a second end having a second connecting element; and a connector for releasably engaging the first connecting element and the second connecting element. In one aspect of the present invention, the connector releasably engages the first connecting element and the second connecting element using a mechanical coupler.

In one aspect of the present invention, the force generator generates a mechanical force. In another aspect of the present invention, the force generator generates a hydraulic force. In another aspect of the present invention, the force generator generates a rotational force. In another aspect of the present invention, the rotational force from the force generator is translated into longitudinal motion within the connector. In another aspect of the present invention, the force generator generates a pneumatic force.

In one aspect of the present invention provides a connector having a first portion releasably coupled to a second portion. The first portion has a plurality of guideways. Each of the guideways has a carriage assembly and each of the carriage assemblies is coupled to a force generator. The second portion also has a plurality of guideways where each of the guideways has a carriage assembly. Each of the carriage assemblies in the second portion is coupled to an article articulated by moving one or more of the second portion carriage assemblies.

In one aspect of the present invention, the plurality of guideways in the first and/or second portion are parallel. In another aspect of the present invention each of the plurality of guideways in the first portion are parallel to each of the plurality of guideways in the second portion. In another aspect, at least one of the plurality of guideways in the first portion is aligned with at least one of the plurality of guideways in the second portion.

In one aspect of the invention, the force generated by the force generator is coupled to the article.

In another aspect of the invention, at least one carriage assembly in the first portion is engaged with at least one carriage assembly in the second portion. In one aspect, the engaging feature and the complementary engaging feature are engaged by relative movement between the first connector portion and the second connector portion. In another aspect, a carriage assembly of the first portion has an engaging feature and a carriage assembly of the second portion has an engaging feature complementary to the engaging feature of the carriage assembly of the first portion. In one aspect, the engaging feature and the complementary engaging feature include teeth. In another aspect, the engaging feature and the complementary engaging feature include gear teeth. In another aspect, the engaging feature and the complementary engaging feature include a spur gear. In another aspect, the engaging feature and the complementary engaging feature include a shape memory alloy element. In another aspect, the engaging feature and the complementary engaging feature include hooks. In another aspect, the engaging feature and the complementary engaging feature are threaded members. In another aspect, the engaging feature and the complementary engaging feature comprise a slot and pin. In another aspect, the engaging feature and the complementary engaging feature comprise a spline and a rack.

In another aspect, a force generated by the force generator is transmitted to the article when the first portion is coupled to the second portion. In another aspect, the first portion is coupled to the second portion using a lever. In another aspect, the first portion is coupled to the second portion by hydraulically moving one or both of the first portion or the second portion. In another aspect, the first portion is coupled to the second portion by pneumatically moving one or both of the first portion or the second portion. In another aspect, the first portion is coupled to the second portion by moving one or both of the first portion and the second portion utilizing a lead screw, a motor driven lead screw and combinations thereof.

In one specific embodiment, the force generator is a motor. The motor is coupled to a leadscrew assembly, so that when the motor rotates, it transmits torque to the leadscrew. A modified nut on the leadscrew is constrained to prevent rotational motion, so that when the leadscrew is rotated, the nut is translated along the axis of the lead screw. The torque from the motor is thereby translated into linear motion. In this specific embodiment, a force transmission element is a cable that is connected to the nut on one end and a carriage assembly on the other end. The linear motion of the nut translates into force on the cable. In the present embodiment, 64 of the leadscrew assemblies are arranged in modules for easy organization and maintenance. The modules are supported in a chassis that also houses the first portion of the connector as described herein.

In one aspect the article is an endoscope. In another aspect, the article is a control surface. In another aspect, the article is a robot in another aspect, the article is a surgical instrument.

In one aspect, the carriage assemblies are biased to an initial condition. In another aspect, a biasing element is coupled to each one of the plurality of carriage assemblies. In yet another aspect, the carriage assemblies are aligned before engaging the first connector portion and the second connector portion. In yet another aspect, a biasing element aligns the carriage assemblies before engaging the first connector portion and the second connector portion.

In yet another aspect of the invention, a connector for coupling a force to move an article is provided. The connector has a first connector housing having a plurality of guideways and a carriage assembly disposed in each guideway. A force transmission element attached to each carriage assembly. The force transmission elements are adapted for connection to a force generator. A second connector housing having a plurality of guideways and a carriage assembly disposed in each guideway. A force transmission element attached to each carriage assembly. The force transmission elements are adapted for connection to an article. In one aspect, the article is a surgical instrument. In another aspect, the article is an endoscope

In one aspect, at least one of the first connector housing and the second connector housing comprising a slack area. In another aspect, the slack area contains the force transmission elements of the first connector housing arranged in an angular relationship to the guideways in the first connector housing. In yet another aspect, the slack area contains the force transmission elements of the second connector housing arranged in an angular relationship to the guideways in the second connector housing.

In yet another aspect, the connector includes a sensor to detect an operational characteristic of the connector. In one aspect the operational characteristic of the connector is the engagement of a carriage assembly in the first connector housing to a carriage assembly in the second connector housing. In another aspect, the operational characteristic of the connector is the disengagement of a carriage assembly in the first connector housing to a carriage assembly in the second connector housing. In yet another aspect, the operational characteristic of the connector is the tension in a force transmission element or a position of each or any of the carriage assemblies. In yet another aspect, the operational characteristic of the connector is the torque exerted on a force transmission element. In yet another aspect, the operational characteristic of the connector is a force acting on a force transmission element. In yet another aspect, the operational characteristic of the connector is the time in service of a particular article. In yet another aspect, the operational characteristic of the connector is the range of travel of a carriage assembly. In another aspect the operational characteristic of the connector is the engagement of a carriage assembly in the first connector housing to a carriage assembly in the second connector housing.

One aspect of the invention is a connection assembly for connecting an articulating instrument to a force generator. The connection assembly has a first portion releasably coupled to a second portion. The first portion includes at least one guideway, a carriage assembly moveable relative to the at least one guideway. A force transmission element is attached to the carriage assembly and coupled to the force generator. The second portion includes at least one guideway, a carriage assembly moveable relative to the at least one guideway. A force transmission element is attached to the carriage assembly and coupled to the articulating instrument. In one aspect, the carriage assembly of the first portion engages the carriage assembly of the second portion when the first portion is coupled to the second portion. In another aspect, the first portion is coupled to the second portion using a first motion and the carriage assembly of the first portion engages the carriage assembly of the second portion using a second motion. In yet another aspect, movement of a carriage assembly in the first portion relative to the at least one guideway in the first portion moves the articulating instrument when the first portion is coupled to the second portion.

In yet another aspect, a carriage assembly of the first portion is engaged to a carriage assembly of the second portion using hooks. In yet another aspect, a carriage assembly of the first portion is engaged to a carriage assembly of the second portion using gears. In yet another aspect, a carriage assembly of the first portion is engaged to a carriage assembly of the second portion using an engaging surface and a complementary engaging surface. In yet another aspect, a carriage assembly of the first portion is engaged to a carriage assembly of the second portion when a shape memory alloy element is activated. In yet another aspect, a carriage assembly of the first portion is engaged to a carriage assembly of the second portion using a pin and a slot. In yet another aspect, a carriage assembly of the first portion is engaged to a carriage assembly of the second portion using a mechanical connector. In yet another aspect, a carriage assembly of the first portion is engaged to a carriage assembly of the second portion using a magnetic field.

In another aspect, the force generator produces rotational energy. In another aspect, the force generator comprises a motor. In another aspect, force generator comprises a pump. In another aspect, the application of force to the force transmission element in the first portion moves the carriage assembly in the first portion relative to the at least one guideway in the first portion. In another aspect, the application of force to the force transmission element in the first portion moves the articulating instrument. In another aspect, the articulating instrument is a medical instrument. In another aspect, the medical instrument is a segmented endoscope. In another aspect, the force transmission element of the second portion is connected to at least one segment of a segmented endoscope.

In another aspect, the connection assembly includes a sensor that indicates an operational condition of the connection assembly. In one aspect, the connection assembly comprises a quick release mechanism. In another aspect, the connection assembly comprises a mechanical interface adapted to transfer force from the first portion to the second portion. In another aspect, a guideway defines a limited range of travel for a carriage assembly. In yet another aspect, a guideway comprises a stop to limit carriage assembly movement. In another aspect, a guideway comprises a protrusion. In another aspect, the protrusion is adapted to retain a carriage assembly. In another aspect, the guideway comprises a recess. In yet another aspect, the recess is adapted to retain a carriage assembly.

In another aspect of the invention, there is provided a system for controlling the movement of an articulating instrument. The system includes a connection assembly having a first portion removably coupled to a second portion. The first portion comprising a carriage assembly connected to a first force transmission element. The second portion comprising a carriage assembly connected to a second force transmission element. An actuator is coupled to the first force transmission element. An articulating instrument is coupled to the second force transmission element. A control system responsive to inputs for controlling movement of the articulating instrument.

In one aspect, the control system controls the articulating instrument movement by regulating the operation of the actuator. In another aspect, the first portion carriage assembly is engaged with the second portion carriage assembly when the first portion is coupled to the second portion. In yet another aspect, the first portion carriage assembly is mechanically engaged with the second portion carriage assembly. In yet another aspect, the first portion carriage assembly is magnetically engaged with the second portion carriage assembly. In yet another, aspect, the first portion carriage assembly is pneumatically engaged, with the second portion carriage assembly. In yet another aspect, the first portion carriage assembly engaged with the second portion carriage assembly using suction or vacuum. In yet another aspect, the first portion carriage assembly is hydraulically engaged with the second portion carriage assembly.

In yet another aspect of the invention, the first portion carriage assembly is engaged with the second portion carriage assembly using a set of engaging teeth. In another aspect of the invention, the first portion carriage assembly is engaged with the second portion carriage assembly using a set of engaging gear teeth. In another aspect of the invention, the first portion carriage assembly is engaged with the second portion carriage assembly using a spur gear. In another aspect of the invention, the first portion carriage assembly is engaged with the second portion carriage assembly by activating a shape memory alloy element. In another aspect of the invention, the first portion carriage assembly is engaged with the second portion carriage assembly using at least one hook. In another aspect of the invention, the first portion carriage assembly is engaged with the second portion carriage assembly using a threaded member. In another aspect of the invention, the first portion carriage assembly is engaged with the second portion carriage assembly by engaging a slot and a pin. In another aspect of the invention, the first portion carriage assembly is engaged with the second portion carriage assembly using a spline and a rack. In another aspect, the first portion carriage assembly is engaged with the second portion carriage assembly using a rack; a pinion; a spur gear; a worm gear, or combinations thereof. In another aspect, the first portion carriage assembly is engaged with the second portion carriage assembly using an electromagnet and/or permanent magnet or other magnetic forces.

In one aspect of the invention, the first force transmission element or the second force transmission element is a cable. In another aspect of the invention, the first force transmission element or the second force transmission element is a piston. In one aspect of the invention, the first force transmission element or the second force transmission element is a Bowden cable.

In one aspect of the invention, the actuator is a motor. In one aspect of the invention, the actuator is a pump. In another aspect of the invention, the actuator is a vacuum pump. In one aspect of the invention the actuator is a pneumatic pump.

In another embodiment of the present invention, the first portion carriage assembly is disengaged with the second portion carriage assembly when the first portion is disengaged from the second portion.

In one embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a system for controlling the movement of an articulating instrument and the articulating instrument is a medical instrument. In another aspect of the invention, the medical instrument is a segmented endoscope. In another aspect of the invention, the first portion is coupled to the second portion and movement of the first force transmission element moves a segment of the segmented endoscope. In another aspect of the invention, a control system generates a command to operate the actuator and thereby move a segment of the segmented endoscope in response to an input.

In one aspect of the invention, the input is provided by a user. In another aspect of the invention, the input is provided by a surgical planning program. In another aspect of the invention, the input is provided by an image of the desired path of travel for the segmented endoscope.

In another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a connector for coupling a force to move a segmented medical sent having a connector having a first connector housing releaseably coupled to a second connector housing. The first connector housing having a plurality of guideways and a carriage assembly disposed in each guideway. The carriage assembly is adapted to be coupled to a force generator. A second connector housing having a plurality of guideways a carriage assembly disposed in each guideway. A force transmission element attached to each carriage assembly and adapted for connection to a segmented medical instrument. In one aspect of the present invention, a carriage assembly in the first connector housing is adapted to be coupled to the force generator using a force transmission element. In one aspect, a force transmission element attached to a carriage assembly in the second connector housing passes through a proximal segment of the segmented medical instrument and is attached to a distal segment of the segmented medical instrument. In another aspect of the invention, application of a force to a carriage assembly in the first connector housing moves a carriage assembly in the second connector housing. In another aspect, application of a force to a carriage assembly in the first connector housing moves a segment of the segmented medical instrument. In one aspect, the carriage assembly in the second connector housing moves along a guideway. In another aspect, at least one of the first connector housing and the second connector housing comprising a slack area. In another aspect, the slack area is in the first connector housing and a portion of the slack area is in a non-linear orientation to the guideways in the first connector housing. In another aspect, the slack area is in the second connector housing and a portion of the slack area is in a non-linear orientation to the guideways in the second connector housing. In yet another aspect, the slack area contains the force transmission element coupled to the first connector housing arranged in an angular relationship to the guideways in the first connector housing. In yet another aspect, the slack area contains the force transmission elements of the second connector housing arranged in an angular relationship to the guideways in the second connector housing.

In another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a connector having a sensor to detect an operational characteristic of the connector. In one aspect, the operational characteristic of the connector is the engagement of a carriage assembly in the first connector housing to a carriage assembly in the second connector housing. In another aspect the operational characteristic of the connector is the disengagement of a carriage assembly in the first connector housing to a carriage assembly in the second connector housing. In another aspect, the operational characteristic of the connector relates to the operational condition or performance of the connector such as friction losses, wear, component degradation and the like. In another aspect, the operational characteristic of the connector is the tension in a force transmission element. In another aspect, the operational characteristic of the connector is the torque exerted on a force transmission element. In another aspect, the operational characteristic of the connector is a force acting on a force transmission element. In another aspect, the operational characteristic of the connector is a force acting on a carriage assembly. In another aspect, the characteristic of the connector is the range of travel of a carriage assembly. In another aspect, the connector includes an indicator that provides information about the segmented medical instrument coupled to the connector. In one aspect, the information is related to the time since maintenance was performed on the segmented medical instrument. In another aspect, the information is related to the physical parameters of the segmented medical instrument. In another aspect, the information provided by the indicator alters the manner in which the segmented medical instrument is actuated. In another aspects the segmented medical instrument is an endoscope.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a schematic view of a system for articulating a controllable article.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the connector assembly.

FIG. 3 shows a detailed perspective view of one variation for a carriage assembly.

FIG. 4 shows a variation of a connector portion having a slack area.

FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate a manner of engagement between the first and second connector portions.

FIG. 6 illustrates carriage assemblies having positioning elements.

FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate alternative carriage assembly embodiments.

FIGS. 8A-8D illustrate alternative carriage assembly and guideway embodiments.

FIG. 9A shows a variation of a quick-release mechanism for attaching and detaching the tendon driven endoscope from the actuators that relies on pins to actuate the tendons.

FIGS. 9B and 9C shows a second variation of a quick-release mechanism for attaching and detaching the tendon driven endoscope from the actuators that relies on a nail-head configuration to actuate the tendons.

FIGS. 10-24 illustrate alternative engagement and force transmission embodiments.

FIG. 25 illustrates an embodiment where the controllable article is a segmented endoscope.

FIG. 26 shows a partial schematic representation of a single tendon bending a segment.

FIGS. 27A-27C illustrate an endoscope traversing a pathway.

FIGS. 28 and 29 illustrate alternative endoscope embodiments.

FIGS. 30A-30E show the use of three tendons to actuate a controllable segment used in the endoscope of the present invention.

FIGS. 31A-31C illustrate a complementary engagement pair including saw tooth male member and correspondingly shaped saw tooth female receiver.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION

FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic view of a system 1000 for moving a controllable article 1100. A force generator under control of one or both of a user input device 1140 and a system controller 1145 generates forces that are used to move the controllable article 1100. The forces generated by the force generator are transmitted to the controllable article using force connecting elements 1135 and a connector assembly 1120. The controllable article may also be an articulating instrument.

A connector assembly 1120 completes the transmission of power generated by the force generator 1110 and applied to the controllable article 1100. The two portions 1125, 1130 of the connector assembly 1120 are disengagably coupled. The connector portion 1125 is the first connector portion or the force generation side connector. The connector 1130 is the second connector portion or the controllable article side connector portion. When the connector portions 1125, 1130 are in a coupled condition, the force transmission elements 1135 are joined and force generated by the force generator 1110 is applied to the controllable article 1100. When the connector portions 1125,1130 are not coupled, the connector portion 1130, force transmission elements 1135 and the controllable article 1100 may be removed, in some embodiments as a single integrated unit, from the connector portion 1125, force transmission elements 1135 and the force generator 1110 or actuators 1115.

The connector assembly 1120 represents one advantage of the present invention. The ability to quickly connect and disconnect the two portions 1125, 1130 allow a single force transmission portion to be used with multiple controllable articles. Currently, articulating instruments such as, for example, endoscopes typically have only 4 cables to provide limited control at the tip of the endoscope. The present invention may be advantageously utilized by existing articulating instruments to allow endoscopes with only a few force transmission elements to be quickly and more readily connected to a force generator. Moreover, connector embodiments of the present invention provide compact organization and efficient coupling of numerous force transmission elements used by highly maneuverable controllable articles. As the degree of control exerted over controllable articles increases, the number of force transmission elements needed to exert that control also increases. Increasing numbers of force transmission elements drive the need for connector solutions such as those presented by embodiments of the present invention that afford a highly compact and organized coupling arrangement of the force transmission elements.

One advantage of the simplified connection/disconnection aspect of the present invention, is that in many instances it may be desirable to have the controllable article easily separable from the actuators, force generators or controllers for cleaning, disinfecting or maintenance. The quick-release characteristic of tee connectors of the present invention enable an efficient way to achieve a controllable article that is easily removable, replaceable or interchangeable. In this manner, a single controller and actuator system may be used to articulate multiple controllable instruments. After one instrument is released, another is quickly and easily connected and ready for service.

Another advantage of the connectors of the present invention is that the proximal ends of the force transmission elements attached to the controllable article can be organized to allow predictable attachment point to the corresponding force transmission elements coupled to the actuators. The plurality of force transmission elements may be organized into a bundle, array, or rack. Such organization provides a known attachment point between the force transmission elements of the actuators to the force transmission elements of the articulating instrument. Additionally, as will be seen in the examples that follow, dozens of force transmission elements will be utilized in advanced articulating instruments. Embodiments of the connectors of the present invention provide a scaleable solutions that allows a user, in a single motion, to connect all the force transmission elements coupled to the actuators to those coupled to the controllable article. Moreover, the single action connection feature of some embodiments of the present invention also provides an important safely feature if an unsafe condition arises, the actuators or force generators may be quickly disconnected from the articulating instrument.

As will be detailed below, this organization could also provide other advantages to the controllable article such as allowing active or passive control of the tendon slack. Furthermore, the proximal ends of each tendon can be modified to allow attachment and manipulation, e.g., the ends of the tendons may be held in a specially configured sheath or casing.

Additionally, the connector 1120 may include sensors and/or safety features to help ensure proper operation and articulation of the controllable article. In the discussion that follows, the connector refers to embodiments of the connector 1120 as well as embodiments of the first and second connector portions 1125, 1130. One sensor or feature may indicate or detect translation or movement of the engaging elements (i.e., carriage assemblies 120 described below) or the force transmission elements 1135 themselves. Another sensor or feature may also detect and measure or otherwise quantify the amount of translation or movement of the engaging elements (i.e., carriage assemblies 120 described below) or the force transmission elements 1135 themselves. Another sensor may be utilized to indicate proper engagement of either the connector portions 1125, 1130 or each of the individual engaging elements (i.e., carriage assemblies 120). Another sensor or indicator may be used to generate a signal based on contacting a limit stop or the length of travel of a particular component. Another sensor may be used to detect component failure within the connector 1120.

Returning to FIG. 1, the system includes a force generator 1110. The force generator may be any conventional generator used to provide or generate sufficient force to the movement of the controllable article 1100. The force generator may provide, for example, mechanical force, hydraulic force, rotational force, or pneumatic force. Force generators may also utilize shape memory alloys (SMA) and/or electroactive polymers (EAP). Optionally, and illustrated in the embodiment of FIG. 1, the force generator 1110 may itself be an actuator or include a plurality of individual actuators 1115 acting as individually controllable force generators for each force transmission element 1135. Alternatively, an individual actuator 1115 may be connected to drive and control a subset of the total number of elements 1135 but more than one element. For example, an individual actuator may be connected to drive two, three, four or more individual force transmission elements. A plurality of first force transmission elements 1135 are illustrated having a first end connected to a force generator 1110, 1115 and a second end having a first connecting element within the connector portion 1125. Details of several illustrative connecting element embodiments are described in detail below.

The controllable article 1100 is connected to the connector portion 1130 by a plurality of force transmission elements 1135. The controllable article may be any of a number of commercial, industrial or medical devices. These force transmission elements have a first end connected to the controllable elements, modules or components within the controllable article. The controllable article may be, for example, a robotic handler having a number of articulating linkages. In this example, the force transmission elements 1135 attached to the connector 1130 are connected to transmit force to the articulating linkages. In another illustrative embodiment, the controllable article may be a segmented, articulating instrument. In this case, the force transmission elements 1135 attached to the connector 1130 will also be connected so as to transmit force to the individual segments to articulate the instrument. The ends of the force transmission elements 1135 within the connector 1120 are adapted to engage one another when the connector portions 1125, 1130 are coupled. In some embodiments, the first and the second elements are mechanically coupled. Other types of coupling configurations are possible and are described in greater detail below.

A controllable article 1100 includes at least one segment or module, and preferably several segments or modules, which are controllable via a computer and/or electronic controller (controller) 1140 located at a distance from the controllable article 1100. Each of the segments has force transmission elements 1135, tendons, mechanical linkages or elements connected to a force generator 1110 or an actuator 1115 to allow for the controlled motion of the segments or modules. The actuators driving the tendons (as a specific example of a force transmission element 1135) may include a variety of different types of mechanisms capable of applying a force to a tendon, e.g., electromechanical motors, pneumatic and hydraulic cylinders, pneumatic and hydraulic motors, solenoids, shape memory alloy wires, electroactive polymer actuated devices, electronic rotary actuators or other devices or methods as known in the art. If shape memory alloy wires are used, they are preferably configured into several wire bundles attached at a proximal end of each of the tendons within the controller. Segment articulation may be accomplished by applying energy, e.g., electrical current, heat, etc., to each of the bundles to actuate a linear motion in the wire bundles which in turn actuate the tendon movement. The linear translation of the actuators within the controller is configured and scaled in conformity with the desired movement of the controllable article and may vary depending upon application of the controllable article. Some commercial applications may include controllable articles articulating in large movements measured in feet. Still other applications, such as for example, medical applications, may find that the controllable article is configured for tighter control to enable more precise movement over a relatively short distance, e.g., within a few inches or less such as ±inch, to accomplish effective articulation depending upon the desired degree of segment movement and articulation.

In one specific embodiment, the force generator is a motor. The motor is coupled to a leadscrew assembly, so that when the motor rotates, it transmits torque to the leadscrew. A modified nut on the leadscrew is constrained to prevent rotational motion, so that when the leadscrew is rotated, the nut is translated along the axis of the leadscrew. The torque from the motor is thereby translated into linear motion. In this specific embodiment, the force transmission element is a cable that is connected to the nut on one end and a carriage assembly 120 on the other end. The linear motion of the nut translates into force on the cable. As such, the leadscrew movement is translated into linear movement of a carriage assembly in one connector hence to another carriage assembly in another connector assembly connected to the controllable article. In one specific embodiment, 64 of the leadscrew assemblies are arranged in modules for easy organization and maintenance. The modules are supported in a chassis that also houses the first portion of the connector described above. More or fewer leadscrew assemblies may be used depending upon application.

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of a connector assembly 110 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The connector assembly 110 includes a first connector portion 112 (not shown but within housing 109) and a second connector portion 114. The first connector portion 112 is within the housing 109. The second connector assembly 114 includes a plurality of guideways 118 each containing a carriage assembly 120. Each carriage assembly contains one or more than one engaging feature 122. Engaging features 122 on carriage assemblies 120 in the second connector portion 114 are adapted to engage with the engaging features 122 on carriage assemblies 120 of the first connector portion 112 (see FIG. 3). One end of the carriage assemblies are connected to force transmission elements or cables 130. In the illustrated embodiment, the cables are Bowden cables. The cables run through a slack area 116. The slack area 116 allows added space for cable slack that may build up during controllable article movement. Thereafter, the cables are connected as desired to the controllable article.

The housing 109 provides a structural base for supporting the connector assembly 110. In this embodiment, the first connector portion 112 (not shown) is secured within the housing 109. The first connector portion and its carriage assemblies are connected via force transmission elements 130 to actuators 105. While four actuators 105 are illustrated, it is to be appreciated that more actuators may be used to drive a corresponding number of carriage assemblies. The housing 109 also provides a opening 107 configured to receive the second connector portion 114. Optionally, either one or both of the opening 107 or a portion of the second connector portion 114 may be keyed to ensure correct orientation prior to connection. When the second connector portion 114 is placed within the opening 107, the first and second connector portions 112, 114 are brought into engagement using an appropriate quick release mechanism, such as for example a cam actuated lever or other engagement device as known to those of ordinary skill in the art. When the first and second connector portion 112, 114 are engaged, forces generated by actuators 105 are transmitted to the controllable article. In one embodiment, relative movement between the first connector portion and the second connector portion is used to couple the first connector portion to the second connector portion. In one embodiment, nearly vertical movement between the first connector portion and the second connector portion is used to engage the first and second connector portions. In another embodiment, the coupling force between the first and second connection portions acts nearly orthogonal to the direction of movement of the individual connection elements (i.e., carriage assemblies 120) within the first and second connection portions.

The connector 110 embodiment of FIG. 2 and other embodiments of the present invention may also provide a number of safety features. For example, the forces used to bring together and hold the carriage assemblies of the first and second connector portions in locking cooperation may be set to such a level that ensures these is positive engagement and no slip. The force holding the connector portions could be set to separate at a force below a threshold force that could damage a component in the force transmission pathway, such as for example, a force transmission element. Alternatively, carriage assemblies could be attached to their force transmission elements at some margin of safety whereby in the event an actuator loses control, the respective carriage assembly would separate from its force transmission element.

FIG. 3 shows an embodiment of the first connection portion 112 coupled to an actuator 105. The first connector portion 112 is constructed similar to the second connector portion 114 described above. As such, the first connector portion 112 includes a plurality of guideways 118 and carriage assemblies 120. Instead of connecting to the controllable article, the carriage assemblies 120 of the first connector portion 112 are appropriately connected to actuators 105.

FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of one embodiment of the second connector portion 114. The second connector portion 114 organizes and houses the carriage assemblies 120 within guideways 118. By connecting the force transmission elements to the carriage assemblies, this organization is provided to the plurality of force transmission elements needed in highly controlled articulating instruments and controllable articles. In the illustrated embodiment, the second connector portion provides 64 guideways with 32 guideways in the upper face 114A and 32 guideways in the lower face 114B (the edge of the guideways 118 of the lower face 114B are visible). The embodiment of FIG. 4 illustrates the compact nature of connectors according to the present invention. Because of the highly efficient space utilization, a connector of the present invention may provide articulation force to 64 separate cables in a space only slightly larger than the width of 32 cables or one-half the total number of cables. Alternatively, the width of the connector is only slightly larger than the width of a single carriage assembly multiplied by one-half the number of force transmission elements.

It is to be appreciated that both double and single sided connector portions are possible. For example, the double-sided second connector portion may be coupled to two single sided first connector portions (i.e., one single sided first connector engages with the second connector upper face and the other engages with the lower face, for example FIG. 20B.) Many different connector shapes and configurations are possible. For example, in another alternative configuration, two double-sided second connectors 114 may be engaged by one double sided first connector portion 112 between the double sided second connectors 114 and a it single sided first connector above one and a second single sided first connector below the other second connector portion 114. In each of these alternatives, the mechanical workings within the housing 109 provide proper alignment and quick disconnect between the various connector portions regardless of the numbers used.

The connectors and housing 109 may be formed from any suitable material having sufficient strength to transmit the forces or energy used. Suitable materials include metals, plastics, extrusions, injection molded parts, forged, and/or metal injection molded parts. In addition, the bearing surfaces may be coated with suitable low friction coatings to reduce friction losses within the connectors such as between the carriage assemblies and the guideways. One or more surfaces within the connector assembly may be coated as desired. Suitable coatings include, for example, Teflon, PTFE, and other low friction coatings. In addition, the bearing surfaces may include a viscous coating or include other bearing structure or surfaces such as, for example, ball bearings, linear bearings, or air bearings and the like.

Connector assembly portion 114 has a plurality of guideways 118 for organizing the array of tensioning-members and/or cables 121 used to control a controllable article. Guideway 118 may be a U-shaped channel formed integrally within housing 114 as illustrated or it may be manufactured separately and attached onto housing 114. As described in greater detail below with regard to FIGS. 8A-8D, embodiments of the guideway 118 may comprise tracks or rails aligned adjacent to each other. In some embodiments, each of the rails may form a protrusion extending along the length of guideway 118 such that a rectangularly shaped-rail is formed. The rail or track may be of any shape such as, for example, rectangular, concave, convex, rounded or curvilinear. A complementary shape is formed in the engaging face of the carriage assembly for that guideway. The number of rails may correspond to the number of tensioning members utilized for a controllable device or more rails may be provided to accommodate for additional tensioning members. In some embodiments, the rails align parallel to one another although in other variations, the shape and alignment of the rails may be varied.

As illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4, connected to at least one of the tensioning members and/or cables 121 are cable carriage assemblies 120. There may be one or several carriage assemblies 120 configured to traverse along the guideway 118. As in these illusive examples, each carriage assembly 120 may be secured to a cable 121 extending from a tensioning member or force transmission element. As best seen in FIG. 3, the cable 121 passes through the cable stop 117, the coil tube 111 and is suitably coupled to the actuator 105. In the illustrative embodiment of FIG. 3, the cable 121 is wrapped about the end of the actuator 105. The cable stop 117 is anchored in the gap between the frame stop 119 and the end of the guideway 118. The ends of the coil tube 111 are anchored between the actuator fame or a support 115 and the cable stop 117. Similar to a conventional Bowden cable arrangement, the above described anchoring configuration retains the coil tube 111 in compression while the cable 121 remains in tension and transmits force from the actuator 105. As best illustrated in FIG. 4, the carriage assembly 120 is moved within the guideway 118 as indicated by the direction of travel 126. A force transmission element (i.e., 130, 130.1, 130.2) attached to a carriage assembly 120 and the controllable article 1100 transfers that motion 126 to move the controllable article 1100 accordingly. The number of carriage assemblies 120 utilized will vary depending upon the number of tensioning members utilized for articulation of the controllable article.

Guideway 118 may be configured to provide a limited range of travel for the translational movement of cable carriage assemblies 120. For instance, guideway 118 may have a frame stop 119 defined at one end of the guideway 118 so that carriage assemblies 120 may be securely seated and aligned with each rail. Frame stop 119 may define a portion of the guideway that is discontinuous such that a carriage assembly 120 may be seated within the discontinuity. Although the discontinuity is shown in FIG. 4 at one end of the guideway 118, it may alternatively be positioned at the other end of in another location along the guideway 118. Alternatively, frame stop 119 may define a crimp, clamp, adhesive, mechanical fastener, or some other method as known in the art for securing to prevent the excess movement of carriage assembly 120.

In the illustrated embodiment of the second connector portion 114, the second connector portion 114 includes a cable passageway or slack area 116. Slack area 116 is an area sufficiently spacious to allow for the inclusion of slack in the tendons and/or cables which may be routed through and/or bend within the passageway 116, as described in further detail below. The passageway 116 may be curved such that controllable article interface 113 and guideway 118 are angled relative to one another, such as the illustrated angle of about 90° but may range between 0° to 180°. The slack area angle is measured between a line representing the direction of movement of the carriage assembles—i.e., direction of travel 126—and a line directed towards the articulating instrument through interface 113. The size and exact configuration of the slack area, if included, will depend upon the number size, shape and flexibility of the force transmission elements used in a particular application. As such, the slack area may have any of a wide variety of shapes or curvature to provide an accommodation for the excess or slack cable length temporarily created during movement or manipulation of the controllable article.

In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 4, the force transmission elements 130, 130.1 and 130.2 are Bowden cables (i.e., cable 121 within a flexible housing or coil tube 111). As the controllable article is manipulated by movement of the cables, the cable housings for the cables may be moved longitudinally proximally and/or distally as well. The slack area 116 is shaped and sized to accommodate a number of tensioning elements in the connector assembly. The slack area 116 may simply be a compartment sufficiently large enough to provide space for the cables 130, 130.1, and 130.2, for example, to extend in an expanded configuration, to allow for cable slack in the connector 110. The force transmission elements 130, 130.1, and 130.2 illustrate the relative amount of space required for coil tube and cable extension. Illustrated are various degrees of extension from low extension in force transmission element 130 to moderate and high degrees of extension in force transmission elements 130.1 and 130.2 respectively. Where a slack area 116 is utilized, the relationship between the connector assembly portion and the slack area need not be angled, as illustrated, but may instead provide for a collinear arrangement.

FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate one manner of engagement between the carriage assemblies 120 of the connector portions 114, 112. When the two connector portions are brought together, the carriage assemblies 120 arranged on one side of a double sided first connector portion 112 align with and engage the carriage assemblies 120 arranged on one side of a double sided second connector portion 114 (FIG. 5A). One possible engagement between the features 122 of the carriage assemblies 120 is illustrated in FIG. 5B as the carriage assemblies are moved in the direction of the arrows. While FIG. 5B illustrates both connectors 112, 114 moving together to join one face, it is to be appreciated that the connectors may engage through relative movement in another direction (i.e., lateral or circular movement, for example) and that one connector may remain fixed while the other moves to engage and that when engaged, the connectors engage on more than one face (i.e., FIGS. 20A and 20B).

One potential problem when engaging connector portions 112, 114 is the proper alignment of the carriage assemblies prior to engagement. Any number of mechanical alignment features and techniques may be used to align the carriage assemblies into a zero or alignment position prior to engagement between a first and a second connector portion. FIG. 6 illustrates one embodiment where carriage assembly alignment is provided by placing an alignment element 123 adjacent a carriage assembly. In this manner, each carriage assembly is urged into a similar position within a guideway 118. In the illustrated embodiment the alignment element may be a bias element such as spring. Alternatively, a small alignment feature may be provided in each guideway to temporarily engage a carriage assembly. The initial application of force applied to the connector after engagement is used to move the carriage assemblies off the alignment feature in preparation for articulating the controllable article. In one embodiment, each connector portion 112, 114 includes an alignment feature that urges the carriage assembly into an alignment position. An alignment position is a position of a carriage assembly in a guideway of one connector portion to further the engagement of that carriage assembly to a similarly positioned carriage assembly on the other connector portion.

FIGS. 7A and 7B show detailed perspective views of two alternative carriage assembly embodiments 120′ and 120″. Carriage assemblies 120′, 120″ provide a rack 130 configured to correspondingly fit and slide along a rail disposed within or other feature configured within a guideway 118. In the illustrated embodiments, rack 130 defines a U-shaped or generally rectangular channel 132.

FIG. 7A illustrates an embodiment of a rack 130 having a channel 132. One end of a force transmission cable 144 is crimped 138 or otherwise fastened with adhesive, soldered, etc. to the rack 130. The cable 144 extends through stop 146 and through coil tube 142. Cable 144 may extend beyond stop 146 and the other end connected, for example, to a force generator or to an articulating segment of an articulating instrument. A coil tube 142 may optionally extend beyond assembly stop 146 to provide support between the cable 144 and stop 146 interface to aid in preventing cable 144 from kinking. Once the rack 130 is placed within an appropriately configured guideway 118 (i.e., one having a complementary shaped rail or feature to engage channel 132), the stop 146 is held within assembly stop 119 in connector assembly first portion 112 or second portion 114.

FIG. 7B illustrates an embodiment utilizing a telescoping tube 140, 136. Inner tube 136 extends within the interior of telescoping tube 140 in a slideable arrangement. Inner tube 136 may be attached within channel 132 at crimps 138 or, alternatively, to the rack 130 with adhesive, solder or other fastening techniques known in the art. One end of telescoping tube 140 may terminate in stop 146, which may be positioned within or adjacent to frame stop 119. Extending from assembly stop 146 is cable 144, which may further extend and be connected to a force generator or a portion of an articulating instrument. Alternatively, cable 144 may further extend from assembly stop 146 directly into a segment of an articulating endoscope. A coil tube 142 may extend partially beyond assembly stop 146 to provide support between the cable 144 and stop 146 interface to aid in preventing cable 144 from kinking or to conventionally assist in the transmission of force. Optionally, one end of cable 144 may be secured to the distal end of inner tubing 136 or cable 144 may be disposed through inner tubing 136 and extend towards the proximal end of inner tubing 136 for direct attachment to rack 130 using a crimp 138. During operation as carriage assembly 120″ is translated, rack 130 rides along a rail in guideway 118 while inner tubing 136 slides through telescoping tube 140 relative to the stationary assembly stop 146. The distal and/or proximal movement of rack 130 will likewise urge cable 144 to move in accordance with rack 130, thereby transferring the longitudinal motion either directly or indirectly to the articulating instrument segment or portion attached to the cable 144.

Also shown in FIG. 7B is an interface portion 134 upon at least one of the outer surfaces of rack 130 to provide for a secure engagement interface with an actuator, e.g., electric motor, shape-memory alloy actuator, hydraulic or pneumatic actuator, etc. Interface portion 134 may be formed into a series of gear-shaped ridges, as shown, to provide engagement surfaces against a corresponding member attached to the actuator; alternatively, interface portion 134 may be configured to have a receiving clamp or slotted interface to provide for engagement or any other type of engagement interface as known in the art.

Although the embodiments of FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate a rectangular or generally U-shaped channel 132, other configurations of the channel and corresponding rail are possible. The sliding channel 132 may also be formed in a variety of open shapes, such as semi-spherical, semi-elliptical, etc., provided the rail upon which rack 130 moves upon is formed in a corresponding shape. Examples of alternative rail and channel configurations are illustrated in FIGS. 8A-8D.

FIGS. 8A-8D illustrate alternative guideway and carriage assembly arrangements. Note that the carriage assembly/guideway arrangements described are applicable to either or both of the first and second connector assemblies 112, 114. FIG. 8A illustrates the carriage assembly 120 guideway 118 arrangement of FIGS. 3, 4 and 5A. The carriage assembly 120 shape is accommodated by the shape of guideway 118.

FIG. 8B illustrates one embodiment of a guideway 118 configured to accept a carriage assembly 120′ or 120″ as described above in FIGS. 7A and 7B. The guideway 118 includes a feature or rail 118′ configured to cooperate in a sliding arrangement with the channel 132. FIG. 8C illustrates an alternative embodiment where the guideway is a raised feature 118″ adapted to engage with a complementary shaped channel 132′ in carriage assembly 120.1. FIG. 8D illustrates another alternative embodiment where the carriage assembly 120.2 includes a shaped feature 132″ adapted to slide along within the recessed, shaped guideway 118′″. In all these variations, the arrangement and shape of the complementary surfaces of the carriage assembly embodiment and the guideway embodiment are illusive and are not intended to be limited to the examples described herein. Rather, the specific shapes used to interface the carriage assembly to the guideway may be varied accordingly as understood by one of skill in the art.

FIGS. 9A and 9B show two variations on quick-release mechanisms for attaching and detaching an articulating instrument from a set of actuators or force generators. FIG. 9A shows one variation of this quick-release mechanism. The proximal end of the force transmission elements may be bundled in an umbilicus 90, and the individual elements may terminate in dimpled connectors 102 that are held in an organized array in a connector interface 92. For clarity only a single force transmission element 93 is shown (in phantom) within a connector 102. It is appreciated that each connector 102 could have a force transmission element 93 to mate with a corresponding pin 100. The connector interface 92 mates to a complementary receiving interface 96 on the structure that houses the actuators 104, e.g. as part of the controller box. The actuators may project “pins” 100 which can mate with the dimpled connectors and convey force from the actuators to the tendons. Thus, for example, an actuator may cause a pin 100 to apply pressure to a corresponding dimpled receiver 102. The dimpled receiver translates the pushing of the pin into a tensile or compressive force applied to the affiliated force transmission element. This could be achieved using levers to reverse the direction of the force, for example. Since every pin preferably mates to a corresponding receiver, it is desirable to maintain the register of the connectors from the endoscope and the actuators. An orientation notch 94 on the connector that fits into a receiving orientation mate 98 on the actuator could be used to align both interfaces. Alternatively, the arrangement of the pins and receptacles could be orientation specific.

This feature is not limited to pins and receptacles, since virtually any convenient mechanism for transferring force from the actuator to the force transmission elements would work. FIG. 9B shows another variation of a quick-release mechanism for attaching and detaching an articulating instrument from the actuators that relies on a nail-head configuration to actuate the force transmission elements. The force transmission elements may terminate in a flattened out protrusion resembling a nail-head 106. The array of nail-heads 106 project from the connector interface 92 at the end of the umbilicus 90, and can mate with slotted holes 108 on the interface 96 of actuator mechanism 104 (FIG. 9C). Thus the slotted holes 108 of the actuators can be individually retracted by the actuators to apply tension to individual force transmission elements. The quick-release mechanism could also be designed to allow the use of different controllable instruments, even of different configurations, from the same actuator set and/or controller unit.

FIG. 10 illustrates an embodiment of complementary barbed connection features 1005, 1010 when brought into contact, barbed connections 1005, 1010 engage and provide a force transmission pathway. These features may be used, for example, as connection points similar to nail heads 106 (FIG. 9B, 9C). These features could be configured to easily connect a force transmission element connected to an actuator to a force transmission element connected to a controllable article. For example, barb 1010 could be attached to a force transmission element connected to an actuator. Barb 1005 could be attached to a force transmission element connected to a controllable article. By causing relative movement between the barbs 1005, 1010, the complementary shaped sloped portions 1015 slide relative to each other until the barbs fall into engagement. In additional alternative embodiments, these features could also be incorporated into the design of a carriage assembly or guideway.

FIG. 11 illustrates an embodiment of a complementary male and female engagement pair 1175, 1180. Cavity 1182 in female receiver 1180 is configured to receive the arrowhead feature 1176. As the male member 1175 is moved into contact with the female receiver 1180, the engagement tabs 1184 deflect allowing the arrowhead feature 1176 to pass into the cavity 1182. Once the arrowhead 1176 passes the engagement tabs 1184, the engagement tabs 1154, close-behind the arrowhead 1176 securing it within the cavity 1182. The male/female connection features could be configured to easily connect a force transmission element connected to an actuator to a force transmission element connected to a controllable article. For example, male feature 1175 could be attached to a force transmission element connected to an actuator. Female feature 1180 could be attached to a force transmission element connected to a controllable article. Thereafter, the force transmission elements are connected by relative movement to engage the arrowhead feature 1176. In additional alternative embodiments, these features could also be incorporated into the design of a carriage assembly or guideway or as part of the embodiments of FIGS. 9A-9C.

FIG. 12 illustrates an embodiment of a complementary engagement elements 1205 and 1220. SMA engagement element 1205 is formed from a shape memory alloy (SMA) or memory metal that changes configuration (martinsite to austenite and vice versa) when energy is applied to it. The unenergized state 1210 is illustrated in dashed lines. Once energized, the element curves forming hook 1215. As the SMA engagement element 1205 forms into hook 1215 it engages with the hook shaped engagement element 1220 completing the connection between the two engagement elements. The complementary engagement elements 1205 and 1220 could be configured to easily connect a force transmission element connected to an actuator to a force transmission element connected to a controllable article. For example, SMA engagement element 1205 could be attached to a force transmission element connected to an actuator. Hook 1215 could be attached to a force transmission element connected to a controllable article. Thereafter, the force transmission elements are connected by energizing the SMA element 1205 to engage the hook 1220. In additional alternative embodiments, the complementary features 1205, 1220 could also be incorporated into the design of a carriage assembly, guideway or as part of the embodiments of FIGS. 9A-9C.

FIG. 13 illustrates an embodiment of a slotted engagement pair. Male element 1300 has a feature or protrusion 1305. The slotted element 1310 includes a slot 1315 sized to receive the feature or protrusion 1305. As the male element 1300 moves in the direction indicated by the arrows, the feature or protrusion 1305 seats into and is held within the slot 1315. At this point, the male element 1300 is coupled to the slotted element 1310. The complementary engagement elements 1300 and 1310 could be configured to easily connect a force transmission element connected to an actuator to a force transmission element connected to a controllable article. For example, male element 1300 could be attached to a force transmission element connected to an actuator. Slotted element 1310 could be attached to a force transmission element connected to a controllable article. Thereafter, the force transmission elements are connected by engaging feature 1305 into slot 1315. In additional alternative embodiments, the male element 1300 and the slotted element 1310 could also be incorporated into the design of a carriage assembly, guideway or as part of the embodiments of FIGS. 9A-9C. In an alternative embodiment similar to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 13, a window latch type connector could also be used to connect the force transmission elements. An arcuate male member could be rotated into engagement with an arcuate female member in a motion similar to the operation of a window latch.

FIGS. 14A and 14B illustrate another embodiment of male 1400 and slotted 1410 engagement elements. Male engagement element 1400 includes a number of features 1405 moveable between a retracted position (FIG. 14A) and an extended or engaged position (FIG. 14B). The slotted element 1410 includes a cavity 1415 sized and shaped to retain the features 1405 when the features 1405 are in the extended position (FIG. 14B). Returning the features 1405 to a retracted position allows the male element 1400 to withdraw from the cavity 1415. The male 1400 and slotted 1410 engagement elements could be configured to easily connect a force transmission element connected to an actuator to a force transmission element connected to a controllable article. For example, male element 1400 could be attached to a force transmission element connected to an actuator. Slotted element 1410 could be attached to a force transmission element connected to a controllable article. Thereafter, the force transmission elements are connected by engaging features 1405 into cavity 1415. In additional alternative embodiments, the male element 1400 and the slotted element 1410 could also be incorporated into the design of a carriage assembly, guideway or as part of the embodiments of FIGS. 9A-9C.

FIG. 15 illustrates a complementary engagement pair including threaded male members 1500 and correspondingly threaded female receivers 1510. Threaded male members 1500 include threads 1505. Correspondingly threaded female receivers 1510 have internal threaded surfaces (not shown) to engage the threads 1505 on male-members 1500. Also illustrated is an embodiment of a driver 1520 that is wrapped about or otherwise-coupled to the female receivers 1510. In operation, the driver 1520 rotates the female receivers 1510 to engage threads 1505 and secure together the male member 1500 into the female receiver 1510. While illustrated as the female receiver 1510 rotating about a stationary male member 1500, the driver 1520 may also be configured to rotate the male members 1500 to drive threads 1505 into stationary female receivers 1510. It is to be appreciated that tree pairs 1500, 1510 are illustrated for discussion purposes only. The principal of engagement represented by the pairs 1500, 1510 may be applied to any number of pairs. The male threaded 1500 and female threaded 1510 engagement elements could be configured to easily connect a force transmission element connected to an actuator to a force transmission element connected to a controllable article. For example, male threaded element 1500 could be attached to a force transmission element connected to an actuator. Female threaded element 1510 could be attached to a force transmission element connected to a controllable article. Thereafter, the force transmission elements are connected by engaging threads 1505 into threaded interior features of female threaded element 1510 through, in one embodiment, rotation via driver 1520 of the female threaded elements 1520. In additional alternative embodiments, the threaded male element 1500 and the threaded female element 1510 could also be incorporated into the design of a carriage assembly, guideway or as part of the embodiments of FIGS. 9A-9C.

FIG. 16 illustrates an alternative engagement and force transmission coupling that utilizes a carriage assembly 1620 and a threaded driver 1600 in a worm gear configuration. The carriage assembly 1620 is similar in design and function as the above described carriage assemblies 120. Carriage assembly 1620 differs in at least that the engagement features 1622 are shaped and sized to engage and transfer force from the threads 1605 as the drive member 1600 rotates. Guideways 118 may be modified to accommodate and ensure engagement of the drive member 1600 and carriage assembly 1620 when the first and second connector portions 112, 114 engage. In one embodiment, an actuator or force generator causes the driver 1600 to rotate. The threads 1605 are engaged with the features 1622 such that as the driver 1600 rotates the carriage assembly 1620 translates relative to the driver 1600.

FIG. 17 illustrates another alternative gear drive or half spur drive configuration. This alternative engagement and force transmission coupling utilizes a carriage assembly 1720 and a spur driver 1700. The carriage assembly 1720 is similar in design and function as the above described carriage assemblies 120. Carriage assembly 1720 differs in at least that the engagement features 1722 are shaped and sized to engage and transfer force from the spur engagement elements 1705 as the spur drive 1700 rotates. In one aspect of the illustrated embodiment, the spur drive 1700 is coupled to an actuator and the carriage assembly 1720 is coupled to a controllable article. The spur drive 1700 may be used simply to engage with the carriage assembly 1720 by rotating in the direction indicated. Thereafter, the spur driver 1700, coupled to the carriage assembly 1720, translates along a guideway as described above and thereby articulates the controllable article. In an alterative embodiment, the spur driver 1700 is larger, perhaps, even a complete gear, that instead of coupling to and translating with the carriage assembly 1720, the gear drive 1700 would be engaged with and rotate relative to the carriage assembly 1720. Rotation of the gear drive 1700 in this alternative embodiment would result in translation of the carriage assembly 1720 and articulation of the controllable article. In each of these embodiments, guideways 118 may be modified to accommodate and ensure engagement of the gear drive 1700 and carriage assembly 1720 when the first and second connector portions 112, 114 engage. In one embodiment, an actuator or force generator causes the gear driver 1700 to rotate. The engagement elements 1705 are engaged with the features 1722 such that as the gear driver 1700 rotates the carriage assembly 1620 translates relative to the gear driver 1700.

FIG. 18A illustrates another alternative gear drive configuration. This alternative engagement and force transmission coupling utilizes carriage assemblies 1820 and a gear driver 1800. The transmission of force follows similar to the manner in which pushing on one end of a bar 1850 hinged to a fulcrum 1860 by a pivot point 1870 results in movement of the other end of the bar (FIG. 18B). Returning to FIG. 18A, the carriage assemblies 1820 is similar in design and function as the above described carriage assemblies 120. A carriage assembly 1820 differs in at least that the engagement features 1822 are shaped and sized to engage with the gear teeth 1803 as the gear drive 1800 rotates. In one aspect of the illustrated embodiment, one carriage assembly 1820 is coupled to an actuator and the other carriage assembly 1820 is coupled to a controllable article. An actuator or force generator moves its carriage assembly that in turn engages teeth 1805 to rotate gear 1800. Rotation of gear 1800 engages teeth 1805 with the other carriage assembly 1820 resulting in translation of that carriage assembly and movement of the controllable article. In an alterative embodiment, the gear driver 1800 would instead be used as a driver to cause translation of both carriage assemblies 1820. Rotation of the gear drive 1800 in this alternative embodiment would result in translation of both carriage assemblies 1820 and articulation of the controllable article. In each of these embodiments, the first and second connector portions 112, 114 and the guideways 118 may be modified to accommodate and ensure engagement of the gear drive 1800 and carriage assemblies 1820 when the first and second connector portions 112, 114 engage.

FIG. 19 illustrates an alternative method of engaging the actuator to a force transmission element. A force transmission element 1915 has a catch 1910. The actuator 1900 is connected to and maneuverable by a linkage 1905. In operation, the linkage 1905 moves the actuator 1900 as indicated into engagement with the catch 1910. Once the actuator 1900 is coupled to the catch 1910, forces generated by the actuator 1900 result in translation of the force transmission element 1915. In additional alternative embodiments, the linkage 1905, actuator 1900 and catch 1910 elements could also be incorporated into the design of a carriage assembly, guideway or as part of the embodiments of FIGS. 9A-9C.

FIGS. 20A and 20B illustrate one embodiment of an engagement system to engage a connector embodiment of the present invention. An L-shaped frame 2010 includes a guide 2015 for an upper plate 2020. An actuator 2000 is coupled to the upper plate 2020 to move the upper plate up and down the guide 2015. In this embodiment the motion of the upper plate 2020 is the motion that engages the first and second connector portions 112, 114. The upper plate 2020 his a lower surface 2025 including a first connector portion 118. The L-shaped frame upper surface 2030 also includes a first connector portion 118. A double sided connector portion 114 is placed between the plates (FIG. 20B). With the double sided second connector portion 114 disposed between the plates (FIG. 20B), the actuator 2000 moves the upper plate 2020 to engage the carriage assemblies of each of the connector assemblies in the connection portions an complete the connection from the force generator to the controllable article. While illustrated as engaging one double sided second connector portion 114, it is to be appreciated that this embodiment could be modified to connect one or more single sided second connectors 114 or two or more double sided second connector portions 114 by including single or double sided first connector portions 112 as needed.

FIG. 21 illustrates a pair of force transmission elements 2110. Force transmission elements 2110 are similar in many ways to the earlier described force transmission elements. Force transmission elements 2110 differ from the earlier described elements in that the ends 2115 are shaped and configured to attach the elements 2110 together using vacuum or suction forces. In additional alternative embodiments, the vacuum or suction end2 2115 could also be incorporated into the design of a carriage assembly, guideway or as part of the embodiments of FIGS. 9A-9C.

FIGS. 22A and 22B illustrate an alterative connection and force transmission arrangement. An actuator 2200 has a recess 2205 adapted to receive and secure an end 2215 of a force transmission element 2210. Another part of the force transmission element 2210 is connected to a controllable article. When the end 2215 is seated in recess 2205, the force transmission element is also secured against a fixed roller 2220. Movement of the force translation element is accomplished by rotation of the actuator 2200 resulting in deflection of the force transmission element 2210 about the actuator 2200 and against the roller 2220. In one embodiment, the guideways of a connector portion could each contain an actuator 2200. The other connector portion could contain force transmission elements 2210 having ends 2215. In this embodiment, coupling together the connector portions would urge the end 2215 into engagement with the recess 2205 thereby providing a force transmission pathway. In additional alternative embodiments, the actuator 2200, recess 2205 and end 2215 could also be incorporated into additional alternative designs of a carriage assembly, guideway or as part of the embodiments of FIGS. 9A-9C.

FIG. 23 illustrates an embodiment of a connector assembly modified to utilize a pressure source 2300 as a force generator. A pressure source capable of generating positive and negative pressure is connected to a modified pressure tight guideway 2318 containing a piston 2205. Piston 2205 is in a sealed and slideable relation to the interior of the guideway 2318. The piston 2205 is also connected to a bias element 2210 and force transmission element 2215. The force transmission element is also connected to a controllable article. In operation, pressure changes generated by the pressure source 2200 result in the translation of the piston 2205. Translation of the piston 2205 results in the translation of the force transmission element 2215 and the movement of the controllable article.

FIG. 24 illustrates another embodiment of a roller actuator operation set used to couple to and drive a force transmission element. A roller actuator set includes a roller actuator 2400 and a pair of fixed rollers 2405, 2410. The roller actuator 2400 may move in the indicated directions. Movement towards the force transmission element 2415 will engage the element 2415. Since the element is secured against block 2420, fluffier moving actuator 2400 deflects the element between the rollers 2405, 2410 resulting in movement of element 2415. In an alternative embodiment, another operating set of a roller actuator 2400 and roller pair 2405, 2410 may be utilized in opposition to the described actuator and roller. In this embodiment, one actuator and roller pair moves the force transmission element in a first direction while the other actuator is idle. To move the element in the opposite direction, the other actuator is activated to deflect the element while the one actuator idles. In additional alternative embodiments, the actuator 2400, and rollers 2405, 2410 (in one or more operating sets) could also be incorporated into additional alternative designs of a carriage assembly, guideway or as part of the embodiments of FIGS. 9A-9C.

FIGS. 31A, 31B and 31C illustrate a complementary engagement pair including saw tooth male member 3100 and correspondingly shaped saw tooth female receiver 3120. Sawtooth male member 3100 includes individual saw teeth 3105. Correspondingly shaped female saw tooth receivers 3122 are shaped to engage the saw teeth 3105 on male member 3100. FIG. 31A illustrates the members 3100, 3120 in a disengaged configuration. Longitudinal movement between the members 3100, 3120 places the members in an engaged position (FIG. 31B). In this configuration, force, position and lateral translation may all be conveyed between the members 3100, 3120. Disengagement of the members is illustrated in FIG. 31C. Rotation of one member relative to the other is used to disengage the members. In the illustrated embodiment, the female member 3120 is rotated in the direction indicated to move the female teeth 3122 out of engagement with the male saw teeth 3105. In other alternative embodiments different saw tooth shapes may be used or other shapes suited to longitudinal engagement and rotational disengagement may be used. In addition, the male member 3100 may be rotated to disengage engaged members 3100, 3120.

Any of the above connection embodiments may be modified to include sensors to provide added functionality to embodiments of the connector of the present invention. Sensors may be located in either or both of the connector portions 112, 114 or in any of the connection and release mechanisms described herein. Any of a wide variety of commonly available sensors may be used to accomplish the functionalities described below such as, for example, reed switches, electro-optical switches, resistive switches, contact switches, optical indicators, strain gauges, stress gauges, measurement indicators and the like. Examples of added functionality, include without limitation, detection of cable or carriage assembly translation, position, or engagement. With regard to engagement, sensors may be used to indicate proper or improper engagement between carriage assemblies or connectors or whether components have become or are about to become disengaged. Sensors may be used to measure component performance or failure. For example, a sensor detects when a cable becomes slack when it should be under tension as an indication of cable failure or, if a carriage assembly suddenly locks into a position, a sensor may indicate an obstruction of the controllable article and/or obstruction or abnormal occurrence elsewhere in the force transmission pathway. Additionally, the output or signal from a sensor may be integrated into the control system. For example, sensors within the connector could be used to measure carriage assembly movement as the indication for position of the controllable article. The sensor could be coupled to or in communication with a portion of the connector assembly and have an output that indicates the position of the instrument. Furthermore, the control system could be adapted to use the output of the sensor, in place of or in addition to encoders on the instrument to control and/or monitor the position, shape, movement etc. of the instrument.

In a specific example where the controllable article is a steerable endoscope, the tip of the endoscope and different segments or positions of the endoscope could be controlled using the position of the carriage assembly/assemblies and cables used to control those segments. In another example, a sensor may be used as limit switch for the length of travel of a carriage assembly. In this example, the carriage assembly length of travel corresponds to a physical or operational limitation of the system or of the controllable article. As such, when the carriage assembly reaches the limit switch the control system may respond appropriately by, for example, shutting off power, sounding an alarm or otherwise providing an indication that the limit switch sensor had been activated. In addition, sensors may be used to identify a particular controllable article being provided to the connector. The identifying information could be used to recall stored maintenance or performance information about the particular controllable article. If for example, a particular component was beginning to wear or if a particular cable required additional force for proper movement, such unique variability for the article could be provided to and accounted for by the control signals generated by the control system. Likewise, the control system may have recording capabilities to record the amount of time the device was used and performance criteria met or not met by the article. In another example, a connector portion attached to a controllable article may include a sensor, other readable feature, mark or other identifying characteristic or a user may enter a serial number or the connector may have a bar code identifier read by a bar code reader associated with the system. The system could automatically read the identifying feature of the connector and adjust control signals according to the stored maintenance, performance and/or service information related to that article.

Embodiments of the connector of the present invention allow for determination of position and provide control of the various segments or modules of a controllable article using the position and/or movement of the cables or carriage assemblies or other components within the connector. For example, the position, shape, and/or movement of the tip of a steerable endoscope or portion thereof could be controlled using the position of the cables, carriage assemblies or other components used to control the tip. The amount of within connector movement of the more or more cables, carriage assemblies or components is correlated to an amount, degree or type of tip movement. A such, by monitoring and controlling within connector movements, the tip and other sections or modules of a controllable article may be controlled. Additionally, linear motion of the cable within the connector may be used to indicate segment position including the position and movement of the instrument tip. Sensors to detect movement may be placed in one or both connector portions 112, 114 (or in other connector assemblies such as FIG. 20B or as described herein)

In addition, sensors incorporated into the connector may be used to measure or indicate the operational condition of the cables, cable wear or changes in friction loads in the instrument. For example, sensors in the connector may be used to detect, for example, increases in cable wear or friction within the instrument in specific cables and sections of the instrument. Information regarding the operating condition of the cables and instrument may be used in a number of ways to improve overall system performance. For example, measurements indicating increasing friction losses over a period of time may be used as an indication that maintenance or service of the instrument is advisable. Alternatively, measurements indicating an immediate friction increase may be an indication of mechanical binding in the force transmission pathway, instrument failure or that the instrument has encountered an obstruction. The signal indications could be used by the system in a number of ways, such as for example, a warning indication, a safety shut-offs, or a “service needed” indicator.

FIG. 25 shows a an embodiment where the controllable article is a tendon driven endoscope 2510. The endoscope 2510 has an elongate body 2512 with a manually or selectively steerable distal portion 2516, an automatically controlled portion 2520, and a flexible and passively manipulated proximal portion 2514, which may be optionally omitted from the device. The steerable distal portion 2516 can be articulated by hand (i.e., using mechanical force of a conventional endoscope manual controls adapted to articulate segments) or with mechanical assistance from actuators. In addition, some embodiments allow a user to input steering commands (i.e., via a joystick 2544 or other input device) into a controller that translates the steering commands into endoscope segment movement.

The automatically controlled portion 2620 is segmented, and each segment is capable of bending through a full range of steerable motion. The distal portion 2516 is also a controllable segment. A more detailed description on the construction and operation of the segmented endoscope may be found in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/229,577 filed Aug. 27, 2002, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

The selectively steerable distal portion 2516 can be selectively steered or bent up to, e.g., a full 180° bend in any direction 2518, as shown. A fiber optic imaging bundle 2534 and one or more illumination fibers 2532 may extend through the body 2512 from the proximal portion 2514 to the distal portion 2516. Alternatively, the endoscope 2510 may be configured as a video endoscope with a miniaturized video camera, such as a CCD or CMOS camera, positioned at the distal portion 2516 of the endoscope body 2512. The images from the video camera can be transmitted to a video monitor by a transmission cable or by wireless transmission where images may be viewed in real-time and/or recorded by a recording device onto analog recording medium, e.g., magnetic tape, or digital recording medium, e.g., compact disc, digital tape, etc. LEDs or other light sources could also be used for illumination at the distal tip of the endoscope.

The body 2512 of the endoscope 2510 may also include one or more access lumens 2528 that may optionally be used for illumination, fibers for providing a light source, insufflation or irrigation, air and water channels, and vacuum channels. Generally, the body 2512 of the endoscope 2510 is highly flexible so that it is able to bend around small diameter curves without buckling or kinking while maintaining the various channels intact. When configured for use as a colonoscope, the body 2512 of the endoscope 2510 may range typically from 135 to 185 cm in length and about 13-19 mm in diameter. The endoscope 2510 can be made in a variety of other sizes and configurations for other medical and industrial applications.

The controllable portion 2520 is composed of at least one segment 2522, and preferably several segments 2522, which are controllable via a computer and/or electronic controller 2540 located at a distance from the endoscope 2510. Each, or at least a majority, of the segments 2522 may have forces transmission elements or tendons mechanically connected to force generators or actuators to allow for the controlled motion of the segments 2522 in space. The actuators driving the tendons may include a variety of different types of mechanisms capable of applying a force to a tendon, e.g., electromechanical motors, pneumatic and hydraulic cylinders, pneumatic and hydraulic motors, solenoids, shape memory alloy wires, electronic rotary actuators or other devices or methods as known in the art. If shape memory alloy wires are used, they are preferably configured into several wire bundles attached at a proximal end of each of the tendons within the controller. Segment articulation may be accomplished by applying energy, e.g., electrical current heat, etc., to each of the bundles to actuate a linear motion in the wire bundles which in turn actuate the tendon movement. The linear translation of the actuators within the controller may be configured to move over a relatively short distance, e.g., within a few inches or less such as ±1 inch, to accomplish effective articulation depending upon the desired degree of segment movement and articulation.

It is preferable that the length of the insertable portion of the endoscope comprises controllable segments 2522, although a passive proximal portion 2514 can also be optionally used. This proximal portion 2514 is preferably a flexible tubing member that may conform to an infinite variety of shapes, and may be made from a variety of materials such as thermoset and thermoplastic polymers which are used for fabricating the tubing of conventional endoscopes.

Each segment 2522 preferably defines at least one lumen running throughout to provide an access channel through which wires, optical fibers, air and/or water channels, various endoscopic tools, or any variety of devices and wires may be routed. A polymeric covering, or sheath, 2530 may also extend over the body of the endoscope 2512 including the controllable portion 2520 and steerable distal portion 2516. This sheath 2530 can preferably provide a smooth transition between the controllable segments 2522, the steerable distal portion 2516, and the flexible tubing of proximal portion 2514.

A handle 2524 may be attached to the proximal end of the endoscope. The handle 2524 may include an ocular connected to the fiber optic imaging bundle 2534 for direct viewing. The handle 2524 may otherwise have a cable 2552 for connection to a video monitor, camera, e.g., a CCD or CMOS camera, or a recording device 2550. The handle 2524 may be connected to an illumination source 2536 by an illumination cable 2538 that is connected to or continuous with the illumination fibers 2534. Alternatively, some or all of these connections could be made at the controller 2540. Luer lock fittings 2526 may be located on the handle 2524 and connected to the various instrument channels.

The handle 2524 may be connected to a motion controller 2540 by way of a controller cable 2542. A steering controller 2544 may be connected to the motion controller 2540 by way of a second cable 2546 or it may optionally be connected directly to the handle 2524. Alternatively, the handle may have the steering control mechanism integrated directly into the handle, e.g., in the form of a joystick, conventional disk controllers such as dials, pulleys or wheels, etc. The steering controller 2544 allows the user to selectively steer or bend the selectively steerable distal portion 2516 of the body 2512 in the desired direction 2518. The steering controller 2544 may be a joystick controller as shown, or other steering control mechanism, e.g., dual dials or rotary knobs as in conventional endoscopes, track balls, touchpads, mouse, or sensory gloves. The motion controller 2540 controls the movement of the segmented automatically controlled proximal portion 2520 of the body 2512. This controller 2540 may be implemented using a motion control program running on a microcomputer or using an application specific motion controller. Alternatively, the controller 2540 may be implemented using, e.g., a neural network controller.

The actuators applying force to the tendons may be included in the motion controller unit 2540, as shown, or may be located separately and connected by a control cable. The tendons controlling the steerable distal portion 2516 and the controllable segments 2522 extend down the length of the endoscope body 2512 and connect to the actuators. FIG. 25 shows a variation in which the tendons may pass through the handle 2524 and connect directly to the motion controller 2540 via a quick-release connector 2554. In this embodiment, quick release connector 2254 could be any of the above described connector or engagement assemblies. In this variation, the tendons may be part of the control cable 2542, although they could independently connect to the actuators, so long as the actuators are in communication with the controller 2540.

An axial motion transducer (also called a depth referencing device or datum) 2548 may be provided for measuring the axial motion, i.e., the depth change, of the endoscope body 2512 as it is advanced and withdrawn. The depth referencing device 2548 can be made in many possible configurations. For example, the axial motion-transducer 2548 in FIG. 25 is configured as a ring 2548 that may surround the body 2512 of the endoscope 2510. The axial motion transducer 2548 is preferably attached to a fixed point of reference, such as the surgical table or the insertion point for the endoscope 2510 on the patient's body. Depth referencing device 2548, and different examples thereof; as well as segment articulation and cable operation are described in further detail in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/229,577 filed Aug. 27, 2002, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIG. 26 shows a partial schematic representation of a single tendon bending a segment. For clarity, the other parts of a complete endoscope, including other tendons and segments, have been omitted from FIG. 26. Tension applied to a tendon cable is transferred across the entire segment, resulting in bending. The Bowden cable 2610 has a sleeve 2614 attached to the base 2622 of the segment 2601 and also fixed at the proximal actuator end 2603. The tendon cable 2612 is connected to the actuator 2605 and the distal segment end 2630. By applying tension to the tendon 2612, only the intended segment 2601 is bent, and more proximal segments are unaffected. The tendon 2612 is placed in tension by the actuator 2605, which is show in this variation, as a motor pulling on the tendon cable 2612.

FIGS. 27A to 27C illustrate a variation of the tendon driven endoscope navigating a tortuous path. The path 701 is shown in FIG. 27A. This pathway may represent a portion of colon, for example. In FIG. 27A, the distal tip of the device 704 approaches the designated bend. FIG. 27B shows the distal tip being steered 705 (i.e., from the phantom position to the solid position) to assume the appropriate curve or bend 706. This steering could be performed manually by the user, e.g. a doctor, or automatically using an automatic detection method that could determine the proximity of the walls of the pathway or using images of the pathway generated by the instrument alone or in combination with images generated by an imaging modality outside of the instrument. As described, the bending of the steerable tip is performed by placing tension on the tendon, or combination of tendons that results in the appropriate bending.

The device is then advanced again in FIG. 27C; as it is advanced, the selected curve is propagated down the proximal length of the endoscope, so that the bend 706 of the endoscope remains in relatively the same position with respect to the pathway 701. This prevents excessive contact with the walls, and allows the endoscope to move more easily along the tortuous pathway 701. The endoscope is in continuous communication with the motion controller, and the motion controller can monitor the location of the endoscope within the pathway, e.g., depth of insertion, as well as the selected bends or curves that define the pathway of the endoscope. Depth can be determined by, e.g., the axial motion transducer 2548 previously described, or by more direct measurement techniques. Likewise, the shape of each segment could be determined by the tension applied to the tendons, or by direct measurement, such as direct measurement of displacement of the tendon cables. The motion controller can propagate the selected shape of a segment at a specified location, or depth, within the body, e.g., by setting the lengths of the sides of more proximal segments equal to the corresponding lengths of the sides of more distal segments as the device is moved distally. The controller can also use this information to automatically steer the body of the endoscope, or for other purposes, e.g. creating a virtual map of the endoscope pathway for analytic use.

In addition to measuring tendon displacement, the motion controller alone, a connector of the present invention alone or the controller and the connector operating together can also adjust for tendon stretch or compression. For example, the motion controller can control the “slack” in the tendons, particularly in tendons that are not actively under tension or compression. Allowing slack in inactive tendons reduces the amount of force that is required to articulate more proximal segments. In variations described above the umbilicus at the distal end of the endoscope may contain space to allow slack in individual tendons.

The bending and advancing process can be done in a stepwise or continuous manner. If stepwise, e.g., as the tendon is advanced by a segment length, the next proximal segment 706 is bent to the same shape as the previous segment or distal steerable portion. A more continuous process could also result by bending the segment incrementally as the tendon is advanced. This could be accomplished by the computer control; for example when the segments are smaller than the navigated curve.

Controllable segments, including the steerable distal portion, can be selected to have different dimensions, e.g., different diameters or lengths, even within the same endoscope. Segments of different dimensions may be desirable because of considerations of space, flexibility and method of bending. For example, the more segments in an endoscope, the further it can be steered within a body cavity; however, more segments require more tendons to, control the segments. FIGS. 28 and 29 illustrate two variations on tendon driven endoscopes.

FIG. 28 shows a tendon driven endoscope variation that has segments 800 of differing diameters. More distal segments may have a smaller diameter 803 more proximal segments, e.g., 802, 801. The diameter of a typical endoscope could decrease from, e.g., 20 mm, down to, e.g., 12.5 mm. The endoscope shown in FIG. 28 appear telescoped, as the diameter decreases distally in a stepwise manner. This design would be responsive, e.g., to internal body structures that become increasingly narrow. This design would also help accommodate bypassing tendons from more distal segments as they proceed towards the proximal actuators because of the larger diameter of the more proximal segments. FIG. 28 shows four differently sized segments; however, virtually any number of differently sized segments could be used. Moreover, although the segments appear stepped in this variation, the outer surface may be gently tapered to present a smooth outer surface decreasing in diameter towards the distal end.

FIG. 29 shows another variation of the tendon driven endoscope that has segments of different lengths. Using segments of different lengths may require fewer overall segments 900 to construct an equivalent length of articulatable endoscope. As shown in FIG. 29, more proximal segments 901 are increasingly longer than more distal, e.g., 902, 903, segments. For example, segment length could be decreased from 20 cm at a proximal segment down to 6 cm at a distal most segment. The lengths may be decreased incrementally segment to segment by a constant factor; alternatively, lengths may be decreased geometrically, exponentially, or arbitrarily depending upon the desired articulation. In practice this results in an “averaging” of curves by more distal segments as bends and turns are propagated proximally. In order to accomplish this, the motion controller may be configured to accommodate the differently sized segments accordingly. Alternatively, endoscopes could be comprised of a combination of segments of different length and thickness, depending upon the application.

The tendons that articulate the segments are in mechanical communication with the actuators. However, it may be desirable to have the insertable distal portion of the endoscope be removable from the actuators and controller, e.g., for cleaning or disinfecting. A quick-release mechanism, such as a connector embodiment described in this application, between the proximal end of the endoscope and the actuators is an efficient way to achieve an endoscope that is easily removable, replaceable or interchangeable. For example, the proximal ends of the tendons can be organized to allow predictable attachment to corresponding actuators, such as for example, through the utilization of embodiments of connector portions 112, 114 or the connectors described with regard to FIGS. 9A and 9B. In addition, the connector provides ways for the tendons to be organized into a bundle, array, or rack. This organization could also provide other advantages to the endoscope, such as allowing active or passive control of the tendon slack. Furthermore, the proximal ends of each tendon can be modified to allow attachment and manipulation, e.g., the ends of the tendons may be held in a specially configured sheath or casing such as through the use of any of the above described connector and engagement embodiments.

FIG. 30A shows an example of the resulting segment articulation which may be possible through the use of two or three tendons to articulate the controllable segments, including the steerable distal section FIG. 30A shows one example of a possible range of motion of a controllable segment of the present invention actuated, in this example, by three tendons. A segment in the relaxed, upright position 3001 can be bent in virtually any direction relative to the x-y plane. The figure, as an illustrative example, shows a segment 3002 that has been bent down and at an angle relative to its original position 3001. The angles α and β describe the bend assumed by the segment. Angle β gives the angle in the x-y plane, while a is the angle describing the motion in the x-z plane. In one variation, the controllable segments of the endoscope can bend through all 360 degrees in the β angle and up to 90 degrees in the a angle. An angle a greater tan 90 degrees would result in looping of the endoscope. In FIG. 30A, the segment is shown bent approximately 45 degrees along angle α. The freedom of movement of a segment is, in part determined by the articulation method, the size of the segment, the materials from which it is constructed, and the manner in which it is constructed, among others. Some of these factors are discussed herein.

The steerable distal portion, as well as the endoscope and the controllable segments are bendable but preferably not compressible or expansible. Thus, in FIG. 30A, the centerline 3004 of the relaxed segment 3001 is approximately the same length as the centerline 3006 of the segment after bending 3002.

FIGS. 308 to 30E show the use of three tendons to actuate a controllable segment used in an endoscope of the present invention. The tendons shown in this example are all Bowden type cables 3010 that have an internal cable 3012 coaxially surrounded by a housing or sleeve 3014 in which the cable is free to move. Bowden cables can be used to apply either tensile or compressive forces, i.e., they may be pushed or pulled, to articulate the endoscope and can be actuated remotely to deliver forces as desired at locations along the endoscope. Force from a tendon is exerted across or through the segment by attaching the tendon cable at the distal end of the segment 3020 and the tendon housing 3014 at the proximal end of the segment 3022. FIG. 30B shows a view of the top of the segment with three attachment sites for the tendon cables indicated 3020.

In one variation, three tendons are used to actuate each segment, including the steerable distal portion, although four or more tendons could be used. Three tendons can reliably articulate a segment in any direction without having to rotate the segment or endoscope about its longitudinal axis. The three cable tendons 3012 are preferably attached at the distal end of the segment 3020 close to the segment's edge, spaced equally apart. In FIG. 30B, tendons are attached at the two o'clock, six o'clock and 10 o'clock positions. It is desirable to use fewer tendons, because of space concerns, since the tendons controlling each segment project proximally to the actuators. Thus, two tendons could be used to control a segment. It may also be desirable to include one or more biasing element, e.g., a spring, to assist in articulating a segment in three dimensions. In another variation, two tendons may be used to articulate a segment in three dimensional space by controlling motion in two directions while rotating the segment about its longitudinal axis.

FIG. 308 shows a relaxed segment with three tendons attached. The tendon sleeves 3014 are shown attached to the proximal end of the segment 3022 directly below the corresponding cable attachment sites. FIGS. 30C, 30D and 30E show this segment bent by each of the controlling tendons 3010 separately.

As shown in FIG. 30C, applying tension by pulling on the first tendon 3030 results in a bending in the direction of the first tendon 3030. That is, looking down on the top of the unbent segment (as in FIG. 30A), if the first tendon is attached at the six o'clock position, then pulling on just this tendon results in bending the segment towards the six o'clock position. Likewise, in FIG. 3D, putting tension only on a second tendon 3032 attached at the two o'clock position results in bending the segment towards the two o'clock direction. Finally, pulling on the tendon in the ten o'clock position 3034 bends the segment towards the ten o'clock direction. In all cases, the bending is continuous; the greater the tension applied, the further the bending (the a angle, in the x-z plane of FIG. 3A). A segment can be bent in any direction by pulling on individual tendons or a combination of two tendons. Thus, to bend the segment in the twelve o'clock direction, both the second 3032 and the third 3034 tendon could be pulled with equal force. Alternatively, first tendon 3030 in the six o'clock position may be pushed either alone or in combination with second 3032 and third tendons 3034 being pulled to result in the same configuration.

In all these variations, the circumferential locations of the tendons and/or biasing elements are illustrative and are not intended to be limited to the examples described herein. Rather, they may be varied according to the desired effects as understood by one of skill in the art.

Steerable endoscopes and colonoscopes may utilize a plurality of individual tensioning or control members, as described in greater detail in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/229,577 filed Aug. 27, 2002, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. However, when a relatively large number of tensioning members are used to manipulate an endoscope for traversing a tortuous path, the organization and management for each of these tensioning members may be optimized according to embodiments of the methods and apparatus described herein.

Although the endoscope connectors and assemblies have been described for use with colonoscopes, the connector and engagement assemblies of the present invention may be configured for the efficient control of a wide variety of controllable articles in the a number of other medical and industrial applications. In addition, they can also be configured for use with catheters, cannulas, surgical instruments, interluminal instruments, and/or introducer sheaths that use the principles described above for navigating through body channels or within the body. They may also be used for industrial applications such as inspection and exploratory applications within tortuous regions, e.g., machinery, pipes, difficult to access enclosures and the like.

In yet another variation, the motion controller assemblies can be used to control the automatically controlled proximal portion to follow the selected path and, if necessary, to return to a desired location using the three-dimensional model in the electronic memory of the controller. While the above illustrative embodiments have described mechanical connections and force transmissions of the first and second connector portions, it is to be appreciated that alternative embodiments of the connector of the present invention may be modified and adapted to accommodate other forms of energy, position, or force transfer including but not limited to, electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic and the like. Modification of the above described assemblies and methods for carrying out the invention, and variations of aspects of the invention that are obvious to those of skill in the art are intended to be within the scope of the claims. 

We claim:
 1. A connector assembly for a controllable medical instrument, the connector assembly comprising: a first connector portion, wherein the first connector portion comprises first force transmission elements, and wherein each of the first force transmission elements comprises a connecting element; and a second connector portion, wherein the second connector portion releasably mates with the first connector portion, wherein the second connector portion comprises second force transmission elements, and wherein each of the second force transmission elements comprises a connecting element; wherein the connecting elements of the first and second first force transmission elements are configured for interlocking engagement with each other, wherein, in a mated configuration of the first connector portion with the second connector portion, the connecting elements of the first and second force transmission elements are moveable relative to each other from a disengaged configuration in which the first and second force transmission elements are uncoupled into a releasable, interlocking engagement in which the first and second force transmission elements are coupled.
 2. The connector assembly according to claim 1, wherein each first force transmission element is coupled to an actuator.
 3. The connector assembly according to claim 1: wherein a first portion of the second force transmission elements are coupled to a first movable segment of a flexible medical instrument; and wherein a second portion of the second force transmission elements are coupled to a second movable segment of the flexible medical instrument.
 4. The connector assembly according to claim 1 further comprising: a quick release mechanism that brings the first connector portion into engagement with the second connector portion.
 5. The connector assembly according to claim 1, wherein each of the first force transmission elements transmits both a pulling force and a pushing force to a corresponding second force transmission element.
 6. The connector assembly according to claim 1, wherein each connecting element comprises a carriage assembly positioned to move within a guideway.
 7. The connector assembly according to claim 1 further comprising: a slack area in at least one of the first connector portion and the second connector portion, wherein the slack area is configured to provide space for slack in the first force transmission elements or in the second force transmission elements.
 8. The connector assembly according to claim 7, wherein the slack area is in the first connector portion, and wherein a portion of the slack area is in a nonlinear orientation to a guideway in the first connector portion.
 9. The connector assembly according to claim 7, wherein the slack area is in the second connector portion, and wherein a portion of the slack area is in a non-linear orientation to a guideway in the second connector portion.
 10. The connector assembly according to claim 1 further comprising: a sensor that senses an operational characteristic of the connector assembly.
 11. The connector assembly according to claim 10, wherein the operational characteristic comprises tension in a force transmission element.
 12. The connector assembly according to claim 1, wherein the second force transmission elements are coupled to move at least one segment of an endoscope.
 13. The connector assembly according to claim 1, wherein the connecting elements of each of the first and second force transmission elements comprise an engagement feature, the engagement features of the respective connecting elements being complimentary with each other.
 14. The connector assembly according to claim 13, wherein the engagement features comprise teeth.
 15. The connector assembly of claim 14, wherein the connecting elements of the first and second force transmission elements are moveable relative to each other in a first direction from the disengaged configuration into releasable, interlocking engagement; and wherein the first connector portion and the second connector portion are moveable relative to each other in a second direction, different from the first direction, from an unmated configuration to the mated configuration.
 16. The connector assembly of claim 15, wherein the first direction and the second direction are substantially perpendicular to each other.
 17. The connector assembly according to claim 1, wherein, in the interlocking engagement, the first and second force transmission elements transmit force between the first and second force transmission elements via movement along an axial direction of the first and second force transmission elements.
 18. A connector assembly for a controllable medical instrument, the connector assembly comprising: a first connector portion, wherein the first connector portion comprises first force transmission elements, and wherein each of the first force transmission elements comprises a connecting element; and a second connector portion, wherein the second connector portion releasably mates with the first connector portion, wherein the second connector portion comprises second force transmission elements, and wherein each of the second force transmission elements comprises a connecting element; wherein, in a mated configuration of the first connector portion with the second connector portion, the connecting elements of the first and second force transmission elements are positionable between a disengaged configuration and a releasable, interlocking configuration, wherein, in the interlocking configuration, the connecting elements of the first and second force transmission elements have a fixed arrangement relative to each other during transmission of force between the first and second force transmission elements.
 19. The connector assembly of claim 18, wherein the connecting elements of the first and second force transmission elements are moveable relative to each other in a first direction from the disengaged configuration into releasable, interlocking engagement; and wherein the first connector portion and the second connector portion are moveable relative to each other in a second direction, different from the first direction, from the disengaged configuration to the interlocking configuration.
 20. The connector assembly of claim 19, wherein the first direction and the second direction are substantially perpendicular to each other. 